Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream & Sandwich Cafe is a Charleston, South Carolina, institution, beloved for its retro charm and indulgent treats. Since 1972, this family-friendly spot has grown to six locations, offering creamy ice cream and hearty sandwiches. Its nostalgic diner vibe and large portions draw locals and tourists alike.
The cafe is famous for its 36 ice cream flavors, from Banana Pudding to White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle, alongside classics like BLTs and burgers. Customers praise the generous scoops and affordable prices, making it a Lowcountry favorite. Reviews highlight its welcoming atmosphere and quick service, even during busy hours.
This article dives into Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream reviews, exploring its flavors, food, and unique appeal. From customer feedback to menu highlights, we’ll cover why it’s a must-visit. Let’s scoop into what makes this Charleston gem so special.
The Legacy of Ye Ole Fashioned
Ye Ole Fashioned started as a small hot dog and ice cream shop in 1972. Over decades, it expanded to six locations across Charleston, including West Ashley and Mount Pleasant. Its growth reflects a commitment to quality and community.
The cafe has won awards, including Charleston City Paper’s Best Ice Cream for 12 years and Best Milkshake for three. The Post and Courier also named it Best Family-Friendly and Best Food Value. These accolades fuel its loyal fanbase.
The retro diner aesthetic, with counter seating and gumball machines, adds charm. Customers feel transported to a simpler time. Reviews often mention this nostalgic vibe as a draw.
What Makes Ye Ole Fashioned Stand Out
Ye Ole Fashioned offers a vast menu of 36 ice cream flavors and hearty comfort food. Its ice cream is creamy, with options for cones, sundaes, and shakes. Reviewers love the variety, catering to all tastes.
The cafe’s sandwiches, like the BLT and Philly Cheesesteak, are oversized and fresh. Vegan options, including plant-based ice cream and burgers, broaden its appeal. Customers appreciate the inclusive menu.
The nostalgic atmosphere, complete with jukebox tunes and red booths, sets it apart. Friendly staff and quick service, even during rushes, earn high praise. It’s a spot for both sweet and savory cravings.
Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream Reviews: What Customers Love
Customer reviews for Ye Ole Fashioned average 4.5 stars on Google and Yelp, with over 3,200 reviews for the Savannah Hwy location. Fans rave about the creamy ice cream, especially Banana Pudding and Strawberry Cheesecake. The generous scoops impress first-time visitors.
The food menu, including double cheeseburgers and loaded onion rings, gets strong feedback. Reviewers describe portions as “astronomical” and “fresh,” perfect for sharing. Some note occasional slow service during peak times but say the quality compensates.
Social media buzz, like posts on X, highlights the banana split as a standout. Customers call it the “best in Charleston.” The welcoming vibe and quick fixes for order mistakes keep fans returning.
Top Menu Highlights
Ye Ole Fashioned’s menu blends sweet and savory with flair. Here are some customer favorites based on reviews:
- Banana Split: A classic with three scoops, topped with fudge and fruit. Reviewers call it massive and delicious.
- Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream: Creamy with a graham cracker swirl. Fans love its rich, tangy flavor.
- Philly Cheesesteak: Packed with grilled meat and veggies. Customers praise its generous size and taste.
- Rainbow Sherbet: Vibrant and refreshing, ideal for lighter cravings. It’s a hit for its creamy texture.
These items showcase the cafe’s range. Seasonal flavors and specials add excitement. Customers often pair a sandwich with a sundae for the full experience.
Comparing Signature Offerings
Here’s a table comparing three popular Ye Ole Fashioned items based on reviews:
| Item | Description | Customer Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Banana Split | Three scoops, fudge, fruit, whipped cream | “Huge and indulgent, perfect for sharing.” |
| Strawberry Cheesecake | Creamy ice cream with graham swirls | “Rich and tangy, a dessert lover’s dream.” |
| Philly Cheesesteak | Grilled meat, peppers, onions, cheese | “Massive and flavorful, best in West Ashley.” |
This table highlights why these items shine. The banana split is a nostalgic treat, while the cheesesteak satisfies hearty appetites. Reviewers suggest trying sherbet for a lighter option.
The Ice Cream Experience
Ye Ole Fashioned’s ice cream is known for its creamy, rich texture. With 36 flavors, from Butter Pecan to Birthday Cake, there’s something for everyone. Customers describe the scoops as “insanely generous” and smooth.
Sundaes, like the Hot Fudge Cake, come with creative toppings. Shakes, made from any flavor, are thick and flavorful. Reviewers on Restaurantji love the variety and presentation.
Vegan ice cream options, like chocolate and vanilla, cater to plant-based diets. Customers praise their creaminess, rivaling dairy versions. The drive-thru adds convenience for quick dessert runs.
The Food and Atmosphere
Beyond ice cream, Ye Ole Fashioned serves hearty comfort food. Burgers, hot dogs, and chicken tenders are cooked fresh, with large sides like crinkle fries. Reviewers call the food “hot and delicious,” especially the BLT.
The diner’s retro vibe, with counter seating and bouncy ball machines, creates a fun atmosphere. Customers love the nostalgic feel, though some note the West Ashley location could be cleaner. The layout feels like a 1950s “shoppe.”
Families, couples, and solo diners feel welcome. Staff, like Rolando at the Sam Rittenberg location, are noted for their friendliness. Even busy summer days see quick, attentive service.
Tips for Visiting Ye Ole Fashioned
Visit during weekday mornings or afternoons to avoid crowds. The Savannah Hwy location gets packed on weekends, especially during summer. Arriving early ensures faster service and better parking.
Bring cash for small orders, as some locations prefer it. Check the menu online for seasonal flavors or specials before going. The drive-thru is handy for quick pickups.
Try a combo like a Philly Cheesesteak with a Banana Pudding shake. Reviewers suggest sharing large portions to sample more items. Don’t skip the vegan options if you’re plant-based.
Social Media and Online Buzz
Ye Ole Fashioned thrives on social media, with Instagram posts showcasing towering sundaes. Fans share photos of banana splits and loaded fries, boosting its appeal. The vibrant colors pop online.
On X, customers praise the quick service and creamy ice cream. Posts highlight flavors like Lemon Cheesecake and the massive portions. The cafe’s awards from Charleston City Paper add credibility.
Yelp and Google reviews, averaging 4.0–4.5 stars, note the nostalgic vibe. Some mention parking challenges at Savannah Hwy, but most love the food and service. The buzz keeps Ye Ole Fashioned trending.
Why Ye Ole Fashioned Is a Charleston Gem
Ye Ole Fashioned blends quality ice cream with hearty comfort food. Its 36 flavors and oversized sandwiches cater to all cravings. Reviewers call it a Lowcountry must-visit for its value and taste.
The retro atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming experience. Awards for Best Ice Cream and Family-Friendly solidify its reputation. It’s a spot where memories are made.
Whether you’re a local or tourist, Ye Ole Fashioned delivers. Its six locations make it accessible across Charleston. Reviews urge others to try this nostalgic treasure.
Summary
Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream & Sandwich Cafe is a Charleston staple, celebrated for its creamy ice cream and hearty comfort food. Reviews, averaging 4.5 stars, praise flavors like Banana Pudding and Strawberry Cheesecake, alongside massive sandwiches like the Philly Cheesesteak. The retro diner vibe and friendly service create a nostalgic, family-friendly experience. Despite occasional slow service or parking issues, its quality and value shine. With six locations and awards like Charleston City Paper’s Best Ice Cream, Ye Ole Fashioned is a must-visit for dessert and diner fans.
FAQ
What are the top ice cream flavors at Ye Ole Fashioned?
Banana Pudding, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Rainbow Sherbet are favorites. Customers love the creamy texture and generous scoops. Seasonal flavors add variety to the 36 options.
Where are Ye Ole Fashioned’s locations in Charleston?
It has six spots, including 474 Savannah Hwy and 1319 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. Other locations are in Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and Summerville. Check their website for addresses.
Is Ye Ole Fashioned family-friendly?
Yes, the retro diner vibe and varied menu welcome families. Kids love the ice cream, and adults enjoy the sandwiches. The atmosphere is cozy and nostalgic.
Does Ye Ole Fashioned offer vegan options?
Yes, they serve vegan ice cream and plant-based burgers. Reviewers praise the creamy vegan flavors like chocolate. These options cater to diverse diets.